THE younger brother of Winchester restaurateur Miff Kayum has opened his own East Asian eatery.

Shah Abdul has taken over the premises left vacant by Bengal Sage, St George’s Street, following the liquidation of his brother’s business.

The restaurant closed its doors in February after five years of trading.

In April, Miff sold the lease on his popular Bangkok Brasserie, Jewry Street, after also liquidating Kyoto Kitchen, Parchment Street.

Public records showed the businesses owed more than £170,000.Kyoto Kitchen is still operating under Miff Kayum.

Now, Shah has told the Chronicle that he hopes the whole of Winchester can enjoy his new ideas at Manow.

“I never thought it would happen,” said Mr Abdul, speaking about opening his own restaurant.

“The support we had from the people of Winchester was so great we just could not let go of the premises. I hope they like my take on East Asian food.”

Shah had helped run his brother’s establishments, but now admits he is happy to be venturing out on his own.

“I’m free!” he proclaimed. “Free to express my own ideas to the people of the city. Over the years they have given me so many suggestions on what they want and now I can give them what they asked for.”

He added: “I always say my customers are my bosses.

“My team and I want to give the city a taste of some truly amazing Asian foods. We have known each other for a long time and hope to be around for the foreseeable future.”

The restaurant, on St George’s Street, is open from 12pm to 2.15pm for lunch and 6pm to 10.15pm for evening meals.